The Tamavua Action Group (TAG) is urging the Government to appeal a recent High Court ruling that dismissed an application for Stay of Execution Orders related to the contentious Great Han development project. The group has expressed disappointment that the court’s focus was limited to the approval of additional floors for Buildings 1 and 2, which they argue overlooks broader compliance issues pertaining to the Environment Management Act.
TAG contends that the overall six-building development has not undergone a thorough Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) nor does it have an approved Environmental Action Plan. These steps are essential for ensuring that the project meets safety standards and complies with environmental regulations. They cited a report from the Technical Review Committee issued in 2023, which raised numerous concerns about the risks associated with proceeding without an EIA.
The risks highlighted by TAG include geological instability in the area, increased traffic congestion on Princes Road, and persistent water shortages experienced by Tamavua residents. Furthermore, they criticized recent court decisions for overly relying on assurances from the Mineral Resources Department (MRD) regarding geological fault risks along the Tamavua-i-Wai ridge, arguing this could lead to significant oversight.
Additionally, TAG referenced concerns from Engineers Fiji, who indicated that the geological investigations conducted by the MRD were inadequate for addressing the complexities of the proposed development. This raises doubts about whether the courts fully grasp the potential risks associated with the project.
The group stressed that ignoring critical environmental requirements for the Great Han project could set a dangerous precedent for future large-scale developments, potentially encouraging similar exemptions from environmental protections. TAG has reiterated its call for the Government to contest the ruling, underlining that this matter reflects larger issues related to environmental safeguards, public safety, and the long-term impacts of major developments on the community.
Should the Government proceed with an appeal, it could mark a pivotal moment for regulatory processes, reinforcing the importance of environmental assessments in future development projects. This stands as a hopeful opportunity for safeguarding community interests while promoting responsible development practices.